Japanese-inspired Bar & Dining Set To Open At Pentridge Shopping Centre In February 2026
February 2026 will mark the arrival of Koi Toy, a bold new Japanese-inspired diner opening at Pentridge Shopping Centre, Coburg, bringing high-energy dining, late-night atmosphere and a modern take on Japanese flavours to Melbourne’s north.
Located on the ground floor of the former Pentridge Prison precinct, now home to Palace Cinemas, retail and dining, and across from craft beer haven BrewDog. Koi Toy takes its name from the famous ornamental fish that symbolise luck, perseverance, and strength in Asian cultures.
Created as a relaxed yet elevated restaurant, Koi Toy will offer something for everyone, from casual everyday dining to a place for celebrations, or those looking for the perfect spot for pre-or post-movie moments.
Leading the kitchen will be Head Chef Alex Meimitis (Chin Chin Club, Geelong, Claypots Evening Star) who brings with him a wealth of both local and international experience, having worked in restaurants in France and Greece. At Koi Toy, Meimitis will bring a refined but approachable take to Japanese cuisine, offering dishes grounded in technique, flavour and a bit of ‘rock and roll’ – modern classics with a twist. He shares,
“At Koi Toy, we want to play with tradition. We don’t want to be just another Japanese restaurant – we want to be a culinary playground where the precision of Tokyo meets the bold spirit of global fusion. Every dish will be a conversation between respect and reinvention.”
The menu will centre on shareable plates and bar-style dining, designed to be enjoyed along with crafted cocktails, music and a vibrant atmosphere. While Japanese flavours provide the foundation, Koi Toy’s approach will be deliberately expansive, guided by creativity, craftsmanship and an uncompromising commitment to quality.
he restaurant interiors have been designed by St Kilda-based award-winning interior design firm, Studio Y with branding from Melbourne design studio Confetti, blending contemporary Japanese references with a playful, urban edge. Expect immersive lighting, graphic neon elements and layered textures. Meimetis shares,
“We want to create food that stands out – plates with flavour, energy and imagination, delivered in a way that everyone who loves good food can connect with.”
Koi Toy is the latest venture from Shayher Group, the developer responsible for bringing the Pentridge Coburg Precinct to life. Shayher Group spokesperson, Craig Hinkins also brings a deep love of hospitality to the project as the owner of the soon to launch Kinridge Wines in Tasmania. Hinkins shares,
“It’s a great privilege to be involved in a project like Koi Toy. We will be looking at collaborating with this restaurant in the new year when we Launch our new Kinridge wine Brand. Being owners of a vineyard in Tasmania, we know about great produce and quality and when teamed with a great restaurant great things happen.”
Pentridge Shopping Centre, T16, 1 Champ Street Coburg
Website: www.koitoy.com.au
Instagram: @koitoy.pentridge
Facebook: @koitoy
